Scorching temperatures are a health hazard to the Valley’s homeless and elderly shut-ins, and one nonprofit organization is mobilizing to prevent heat-related deaths and illnesses among this vulnerable, growing population.

Phoenix Rescue Mission is partnering with several municipalities and businesses to launch its third-annual “Code Red: Summer Heat Relief Campaign,” which runs through Aug. 31. “Code Red” elevates the urgency of the call to action with a public plea for water, white socks, toiletries, cool snack packs, hats, light-colored T-shirts, sunglasses, sunscreen, lip balm, chilly neck coolers and more.

“Phoenix’s extreme summer heat is deadly and this year will be no exception,” said Jay Cory, Phoenix Rescue Mission president and CEO. “As temperatures rise, our top priority is to get aid to those who are forced to suffer under the blistering desert sun without any water or shelter. We have an opportunity to save lives but we desperately need public support.”

Through July 31, Open Wide Dental will collect cases of bottled water. The dental office, located at 6520 N. 7th Ave., Ste. 1, will match each donation case-for-case. Donors will receive a $25 voucher good for a future visit. Call 602-347-9999 or e-mail info@openwidedentalaz.com for more information.

Drop-off sites for water, socks, sunscreen, hats, toiletries and other heat relief items are located throughout the Valley. For a complete list, visit www.phoenixrescuemission.org/codered/locations or call 602-233-3000.

 

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